Sam Lawday appointed St John Ambulance Cadet of the Year

Sam Lawday a 16-year-old Cadet from Dorset, has been named the
St John Ambulance National Cadet of the Year 2009.

Thirty-seven Cadets from across the country
took part in the annual National Cadet of the Year competition in
Nottingham this weekend. Cadets were assessed on a variety
of skills including teamwork, initiative under pressure,
organisation, leadership and interpersonal communication.

‘I feel so proud to be the new National Cadet of the Year,’ said
Sam. ‘It feels amazing, I’m speechless. It was so unexpected –
there were so many amazing Cadets I didn’t think I was in with a
chance. I’m definitely looking forward to the year ahead.’

Sam’s mother, Sonja Lawday, who was watching on as he was
honoured said: ‘I’m incredibly proud. I nearly fell off my chair
and there was no one sitting in my row with a tissue.’

Max Anderson from South and West Yorkshire and Natalie Dennehy
from Berkshire were appointed as the two Deputy Cadets of the Year
for 2009.

I want to show that at SJA we learn more than first aid. We have fun, make friends, help people and learn new things – from DIY to law and kayaking.

Sam Lawday

Cadet of the Year 2009

St John Ambulance has over 26,000 youth members
and believes that every young person should have the opportunity to
make a real difference in their community, to speak out on what
matters to them and to help others in need of support and
development. As National Cadet of the Year, Sam will represent all
Cadets at a range of events – including charity balls, award
ceremonies and competitions - acting as an ambassador for the
organisation which is the nation’s leading first aid charity.

Sam continued: ‘St John Ambulance’s Youth Strategy has offered
huge benefits to people like me. An ever changing programme,
achievement that is rewarded and the chance to give young people a
voice – this is what we asked for and SJA has really listened. I
want to show that at SJA we learn more than first aid. We have fun,
make friends, help people and learn new things – from DIY to law
and kayaking.’

Sarah Holmes, Chief Commissioner Youth said: ‘At a time when
young people are considered a nuisance to society, our Cadets have
once again shown this weekend what an outstanding credit they are
to the organisation, their families and the local community.

'It is a great achievement to be nominated to take part in this
competition, let alone win it. Sam demonstrated tremendous
dedication and enthusiasm over the course of the competition and we
are delighted that he is our National Cadet of the Year 2009.’